A New Website

I’ve moved. Please visit me at www.mariaimorgan.com for my latest blog posts, Life Lessons videos, and to sign up for a complimentary copy of my eBook, God Speaking.

God bless!

Psalm 118:24 This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

I'm Moving & You're Invited to Visit

I remember staying up into the wee hours of the night attempting to pack those last few boxes. It was the middle of summer and moving day was a scorcher. 

We were only moving fifteen miles away, but it was a lot more work than I had anticipated. That was over thirteen years ago.

This week I’m in the final stages of moving to my new cyberhome. It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump across the blogosphere, but this move has also required a lot of work. 

When I began the process several months ago, I really didn’t know what kind of design or layout I was after. I only knew it was time to migrate from a blog to a full-fledged website.

In a small way I can relate to the patriarch, Abraham, who was issued a challenge by God: “Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee,” (Genesis 12:1; KJV). 

What a tough assignment! To leave everything you’re familiar with and begin walking toward an unfamiliar destination. 

Blogging for over three years at the same address has caused me to become comfortable. For a while now, I've felt the need to step out of my comfort zone and take steps into the slightly scary, unfamiliar territory of a new domain.

I have to be honest – the work has paled in comparison to the excitement of welcoming you to my new address!

I’m tidying everything up this week, in anticipation of your visit. I’ll be serving up new blog posts and plenty of nooks and crannies for your exploration.

You’re Invited

Who: You

What: A cyberhome warming party

When: Tuesday, February 5th

Where: www.mariaimorgan.com

Why: To introduce you to a new website where I'll be sharing the truths of God’s Word to encourage you throughout life’s journey

Won’t you join me? I look forward to seeing you on the 5^th!


Is there an area of your life where you've gotten too comfortable? Is God challenging you to take a step toward the intimidating unknown? Will you respond in faith today?


Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for challenging me to step out in faith and trust You with the direction of my life. I know it won't always be easy, but I desire to grow. Help me to take the next step today. Thank You for the promise that You'll always be with me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Join in the conversation!

At the Heart of it All

The wedding was beautiful. The bride, dazzling in white. The groom, radiant as he stood waiting for his bride. As vows were spoken and rings were exchanged, I had no doubt the bride and groom were in love. In love with each other and in love with the Lord. The Lord was praised for bringing the couple together and He was an integral part of the wedding ceremony.

Two Become One

A wedding signifies the merging of two lives. Marriage was instituted by God himself, and is a beautiful picture of Christ’s relationship with the church. “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church,” (Ephesians 5:31-32; KJV). 

So this translates to ‘happily ever after,’ right? Only when the Lord, hard work, and determination are part of the equation.

Every marriage faces challenges. Sometimes I selfishly want things to be done my way – forgetting my better half. “Oneness in marriage does not mean losing your personality in the personality of the other. Instead, it means caring for your spouse as you care for yourself, learning to anticipate the other person’s needs, helping the other person become all he or she can be,” (Life Application Study Bible, p. 2078). 

Wow! Now that’s a tall order. But when God is at the heart of the relationship, we put ourselves in a position where He can bless us, and our marriage works.

A Love Story Worth Reading

Remember Ruth and Boaz’s love story? Ruth was a young woman from Moab who was profoundly influenced by her mother-in-law, Naomi. When Ruth’s husband died and Naomi determined to return to Bethlehem-Judah, Ruth willingly left her country, and embraced a new life, “…for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God,” (Ruth 1:16b). 

Once back in Judah, Ruth was determined to help Naomi. Gleaning in a nearby field gave her an opportunity to harvest food for the two of them. 

Enter the knight in shining armor. Okay, he didn’t really wear armor, but check out his list of qualities and decide if he was a keeper: above reproach, self-controlled, wise, respectable, hospitable, gentle, a godly man, and a good manager of his own household – to name just a few. I’m pretty sure he’s the kind of guy every mother dreams of for her daughter!

God's Blessings

In order to marry Ruth, Boaz had to fulfill some legal obligations. He was willing to do everything that was necessary. These two demonstrated a strong love for the Lord as individuals and continued to build on their foundation as a couple. And God blessed! “So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the Lord gave her conception, and she bare a son,” (Ruth 4:13). 

That son turned out to be none other than Obed, the grandfather of David! Ruth and Boaz were blessed for their obedience to the Lord by being included in the lineage of Christ.

When we center our marriage on the Lord, we can be sure we will be blessed as well. In fact, any relationship with Christ at its core is headed in the right direction! “The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing,” (Zephaniah 3:17).

Evaluate your relationships. Is Christ at the center of each of them? If not, what step will you take today to make Him the emphasis?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for the relationships You’ve blessed me with. Help me to build strong relationships where You are honored and glorified. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Tweetable: "When God is at the heart of our relationship, we put ourselves in a position where He can bless us, and our marriage works." #LifeLessons

*A re-post from 9/2011

Ready & Willing

He did it again. Provided just the words of encouragement I needed to pick up and move ahead. My husband's good at that. He helps me see things from a different perspective. He provides the sounding board I so desperately need when I'm considering my options. He talks me through discouragement, pointing out the endless possibilities. He cheers me on when I feel like quitting. And guides me to the One who filled me with a purpose in the first place - my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

I was never promised life without difficulties. Even when I'm convinced that I'm pursuing the purposes God has called me to, challenges pop up along the path. Yet with each challenge, God provides me with someone to come alongside and help put things in perspective. Precious believers, living out the words of the apostle Paul, "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ," (Galatians 6:2; KJV).

I'm reminded of the mighty man of God, Moses. He had no small task leading the children of Israel out of Egypt to the promised land. Imagine being responsible for the well-being of millions of people! Along their journey, the Amalekites had come out to fight with Israel in Rephidim. Moses' directions to his military leader, Joshua, were clear, "Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in mine hand," (Exodus 17:9).

The next day dawned with Joshua leading the army out to battle and Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbing to the top of the hill - a great vantage point from which to view the fight. Moses quickly noticed an amazing phenomenon, when he held up his hands, Israel overcame the enemy, but when he put his hands down, the Amalekites began beating the Israelites. A bit uncanny, but true!

Moses soon realized he wouldn't be able to hold his arms up throughout the battle without help. Aaron and Hur to the rescue! They found a stone for Moses to sit on, and with Aaron on one side and Hur on the other, they held up Moses hands for him. What were the results? "...and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword," (Exodus 17:12b-13). Wow! Look at what was accomplished when these friends came alongside Moses and offered their help! A great victory!

King Solomon outlined several blessings of godly companionship. "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will life up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken," (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).

When I'm rooted in Christ and I come alongside a fellow believer, there's no limit to what God can accomplish!

Is there someone the Lord is directing you to help and support? Arm yourself with the Word of God and prayer and be prepared to see God work!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for believers You've put in my life who provide encouragement and support. Help me to be quick to come alongside others who are in need of help. Allow me to point them to You and be careful to praise You for the outcome. In Jesus' name, Amen.        

*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Join in the conversation!

Stuffed Peppers & 4 Things They Taught Me About God

I meant to get dinner started earlier. Stuffed green peppers were on the menu, and I remembered the recipe was a bit involved – not difficult, just time-consuming. I began the necessary prep work at 5 o’clock, guessing we’d be able to eat within an hour and a half. I knew my husband and daughter were hungry, but 6:30 wasn’t too late to be eating dinner.

Once the peppers began to boil, I started working on the filling. It didn’t take long to cook the sausage and onion, and add the remaining ingredients. Maybe the recipe wouldn’t take as long as I had initially thought.

Glancing back at the directions, I saw my mistake. Once the meat mixture came to a boil, it needed to simmer on low heat for an hour. After the peppers were stuffed, they needed to bake in the oven for another 30 minutes. Somebody had grossly underestimated the time needed to make this dish – the 90 minutes that were called out on the recipe, only took cooking time into account.

With my family asking if dinner was almost ready, I made the executive decision to finish the peppers. Unfortunately, dinner wouldn’t be served until after 7 o’clock. We were finally able to sit down and enjoy our meal at 7:15.

From start to finish, making the stuffed peppers was a long process. I had to smile at the countless times I’d looked at the clock, wondering how long it would take before our meal would be ready, and wishing it would hurry up and be done. I couldn’t help thinking, “I’m glad God isn’t like that with me.”

As I’m on this journey called life, God doesn’t rush the growth process.

*He knows I’m human: “For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust,” (Psalm 103:14; KJV).

*He is very patient: “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy,” (Psalm 103:8).

*He has a goal for me: “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren,” (Romans 8:29; italics mine).

*He is always with me: “. . . for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee,” (Hebrews 13:5).

What a relief to know that God doesn't shake His head in disgust when I miss a lesson He has for me. Instead, in His patience and mercy, He gives me more opportunities to learn that same lesson. He’s not watching the clock and wishing I’d hurry up and grow. Instead, He remembers I’m human, and reminds me that I can count on Him to be with me every step of the way.

Are you impatient? How will you respond to what God showed you today?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your patience. I know I’m human and fail you in so many ways. Help me learn the lesson you have for me today. Thank you for always being with me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I Don't Work for the Circus

Dependence. Not a word I usually think of in positive terms. The dictionary defines it as: "reliance on somebody or something," (Encarta Dictionary). In a society that encourages me to "pull myself up by my bootstraps," having to rely on anyone or anything other than self isn't a very popular concept.

Obviously there is something to be said for independence. When a child reaches adulthood, it's natural for her to get a job, find a place of her own, and pursue a life independent of mom and dad.  That's a good thing.

But dependence can also be a good thing. At every stage of life, I've found it's important for me to be aware of my dependence on God.

There are days when I've tried to run the show on my own and have failed miserably. I know what needs to be done, but I can't accomplish it in my own strength. I end up frustrated and exhausted. And I realize why I don't work for the circus -- I could never juggle all those balls at the same time!

When life seems out of control, I can run back to the One who controls it all and learn from His Word.

Remember the prophet Daniel? His life gives me a good example of what it looks like to depend on God.

Daniel was a young man when he was taken into captivity by the Babylonians. When his captors offered him food from the king's table which was forbidden by the law of God, Daniel didn't waste time letting them know where his allegiance lay: "But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself," (Daniel 1:8; KJV).

Talk about dependence! Daniel trusted God with his life. He depended on God to give him favor with the king of Babylon. Notice the result: "And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king," (Daniel 1:19). Daniel and his friends were elevated to positions as counselors, or wise men, in the king's cabinet.

God's faithfulness proved to Daniel that he could fully depend on his Creator. Later, when the king flew into a rage and would have killed all of his counselors, Daniel asked the king's captain for an explanation. It seemed the king couldn't find anyone to interpret his disturbing dream.

Daniel couldn't interpret dreams, but he knew God could. After praying for God's mercy, the meaning of the king's dream was revealed to Daniel in a vision. When he stood before the king, Daniel was careful to praise God and give Him credit for the dream's interpretation. Once again, depending on God had saved Daniel's life.

The God Daniel served is the same God I serve. God never changes. Although I'm not a captive, or working for a foreign king, God gives me just as many opportunities to depend on Him. Realizing I need His help is important. When I depend on God to give me strength for the things that need to be accomplished, He is more than able to exceed my expectations -- every time.

Are you trying to live life in your own strength? What step will you take to begin depending on God?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for showing me that it's important to depend on You. Forgive me when I try to live life on my own -- I don't accomplish much and I end up tired. Help me trust You with the everyday details of living. I need Your strength. In Jesus' name, Amen. 

*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Join in the conversation!

3 Things I Learned from a Medieval Torture Rack

It looked like a medieval torture rack. Okay, maybe my description was a bit dramatic. But the table and machine - complete with Velcro straps and cables - didn't strike me as inviting.

My husband Steve proved to be a good candidate for the ominous equipment. The decompression provided by the machine would separate the  discs in his lower back that were causing him problems.

Although unsure of what caused the initial injury, Steve's back pain motivated him to look into treatment. Any alternative to surgery was being considered. Chiropractic seemed to be a logical choice.

 Because of a busy work schedule, it was difficult to get Steve to commit to regular chiropractor appointments. But pain can be a pretty strong motivator. He realized he had to do something, and he was willing to give the decompression machine a chance.

Each session was monitored by the chiropractor. He would program the machine to apply a specific amount of pressure to Steve's lower back. With every appointment the pressure was gradually increased. Although Steve still experienced pain, it was a different kind of pain. Soreness had replaced the ache of bone rubbing against bone. The decompression was working.

The whole process reminded me of how God works.

Of course He doesn't use tables or machines, but He still stretches me.

*I have to recognize my need for growth. It's easy to fool myself into thinking I've arrived. But I'm only kidding myself. God's plan is to conform me to the image of His Son, Jesus Christ (Romans 8:29). I've got a long way to go.

*I have to show up for my appointments with the Lord. Every day I have the opportunity to read His Word and talk to Him in prayer. If I'm not willing to be still and listen to what He has to say, I won't apply His principles to my life.

*I have to trust that He knows what He's doing. He will do what's best for me. The process may be difficult and sometimes painful, but it WILL lead to growth.  "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ," (Philippians 1:6; KJV).

I have a choice to make: will I allow the Lord to stretch me? I want to grow, so I know I need to spend time with the One who can help me. Today I choose to trust Him no matter what method He uses to stretch me.

Are you willing to be stretched? What step will you take to ensure your growth?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for the valuable lessons You taught me. Forgive me when I'm prideful and don't see a need for growth. Help me set aside time to develop my relationship with You. Help me trust You when You apply pressure that will help me stretch. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Sick of Complaining

I have to admit, the first days of the new year have been a bit rough. Viruses and the respiratory flu have come to stay in spite of the fact that they weren't invited.

I've noticed a familiar pattern when I feel less than my best; something I'm not proud of -- I complain. Because good health is the norm, it's easy to justify my complaints. But complaining is toxic.

Just like poison, complaining taints everything it touches. When I begin a conversation with a complaint, I set the tone for others to add more of the same. Negativity creates a downward spiral that leads to hopelessness.

Consider the children of Israel. They had been set free from the bondage of slavery. God had done the miraculous and released them from their cruel taskmasters, the Egyptians. Instead of continuing to trust God to provide for their physical needs, they chose to complain.

 Listen to one of their pity parties:

"And the whole congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness: And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh pots, and when we did eat bread to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger," (Exodus 16:2-3; KJV).

Really? Was the food in Egypt that good? Had they forgotten the hard labor and beatings they had endured at the hand of the Egyptians? Probably not. But when circumstances were far from ideal, complaining was easier than exercising faith.

Unfortunately, this became a prevalent  attitude. From their Exodus out of Egypt until they stood poised to possess the Promised Land, the Israelites demonstrated a recurring pattern of complaints that dotted the landscape over which they traveled.

Did this negative attitude have much of an impact on them? Definitely. It's no secret that they wandered in the wilderness for 40 years following a major bout of complaining.

After the twelve Israelites returned from spying out the Promised Land, their negative report enticed the rest of the people to voice their doubts:  "And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness," (Numbers 14:2). They were so discouraged they were ready to elect a captain to lead them back to Egypt.

I often shake my head in disgust at the lack of faith displayed by this large group of people. Hadn't they seen God work on their behalf? Surely they would trust Him by now. Then I realize I act just like them. God has done some pretty amazing things in my life, yet I fall back into the rut of complaining when things don't go the way I expect them to.

But I have a choice. I can choose to trust God and praise Him in spite of how I feel and regardless of my circumstances. I can agree with God that complaining is sin, and pray the words of the Psalmist: "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer," (Psalm 19:14).

Today, I choose to praise the Lord and use words that give hope.

Do you complain? What step will you take to eliminate complaints from your conversations today?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that complaining is sin. Help me remember the example of the Israelites when I'm tempted to grumble. You've given me so many reasons to praise You. Help me trust You every day and to praise You even when things are difficult. Thank You for the hope You give me.  In Jesus' name, Amen.

*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Join in the conversation!

Something the Cat Taught Me

It’s true – lessons can be learned from life’s irritations IF I’m willing to see the bigger picture.

I had the privilege of taking care of my neighbor’s pets while they were visiting family. The three dogs, three cats and a guinea pig, all under one roof, promised to keep me busy. 

I didn’t realize the animals would play a key role in teaching me an important lesson.

Maybe it was the rain that made the animals unpredictable, but the morning routine was anything but routine. From the time I arrived, the pets would not cooperate. One of the dogs refused to go outside, retreating farther into the house, regardless of my coaxing. Two of the cats had entertained themselves with ornaments retrieved from a hutch I was certain they were unable to reach. What was going on?

I continued to entice the uncooperative dog outside. Maybe a treat would convince her to step over the threshold? I was pretty sure she needed to empty her bladder after eight hours in the house. She refused to budge. That’s when it happened: with the door wide open, one of the cats took advantage of the opportunity. Quicker than I could shut the door, the cat darted out into the yard.

Fortunately the rain acted in my favor – the cat didn’t run far before realizing the warm, dry house was far better than the cold, wet out-of-doors. He let me pick him up, and even endured my scolding as I deposited him back in the house. I carefully shut the door behind me, scanning the kitchen to make sure all pets were accounted for.

I was stunned – there was a lesson here. 

Too often, the wide-open door is a picture of my heart. I fail to guard my heart and as a result, all kinds of things get in that shouldn’t be there.  King Solomon, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, put it this way: “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life,” (Proverbs 4:23; KJV).

I may be doing a decent job of protecting my heart from the things I think of as “big” sins (killing, stealing, adultery, etc.), but while I’m focused on those things, other sins are able to slip by: pride, lying, complaining, a bad attitude. 

In God’s economy, sin is sin—there is no classification: “big” sin or “small” sin.

Agreeing with God’s definition of sin and putting on the armor He provides (Ephesians 6:11-17), are the right steps for me to take in order to guard my heart. The devil is depicted as a roaring lion intent on destroying me (1 Peter 5:8).

But God is greater than my enemy. When I humble myself and rely on God’s strength to overcome the devil, share my doubts and struggles with the Lord, and stay alert to the enemy’s schemes, my heart will stay protected.

God adds a beautiful promise: “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you,” (1 Peter 5:10).

Are you guarding the door to your heart? What step will you take today to protect yourself?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for using life’s irritations to teach me important lessons. Forgive me for thinking I can guard my heart on my own. Help me humble myself and look to You for the protection my heart needs. Thank You for the promise that when I face trials with You, I am made more complete. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Things That Matter Most

A new year has begun. Time to reflect on the past year, has helped me identify the things I’ll continue in 2013, and recognize the things I need to eliminate. Each new beginning offers an opportunity to focus on what really matters:

Keeping Him first.

This is a daily challenge for me. When I think about who He is, I’m humbled.

“For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the people are idols: but the Lord made the heavens,” (1 Chronicles 16:25-26; KJV).  

He is the Creator. I am His creation.

My to-do list doesn’t end, and it’s easy to plunge into the day with my plans in place. It’s when I take time to talk to God and identify His will for the day that I’m able to accomplish the most.

His Word reminds me: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths,” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Developing quality relationships and serving others.

I have to admit, I’m selfish. I typically think of my needs first. God’s Word points out a better way – I’m to put others ahead of myself. In the book of Philippians Paul writes: “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves,” (2:3).

Taking the attitude of a servant goes a long way toward pointing others to Christ. “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself,” (Galatians 5:13-14).

Doing what He’s given me to do one step at a time.

God has a plan for my life. It’s up to me to use the abilities He’s given me, and rely on His strength to help me accomplish that plan. He won’t force me to fulfill His plan, but He’s given me the incredible opportunity to partner with Him in something that will bring Him glory. It’s His hope that I’ll join Him to fulfill His will for my life: “The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling . . .” (Ephesians 1:18).

The Lord shares a marvelous promise: “Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass,” (Psalm 37:5). And His presence goes with me: “. . . I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee,” (Hebrews 13:5b)

What decisions have you made for 2013? Will you focus on what really matters? Take steps today to put God first, serve others, and fulfill the plan God has for your life.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of a new year. Help me grow in grace and in the knowledge of you every day. I want to put you first today and serve those you’ve brought into my life. Help me fulfill the plan you have for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Happy New Year!

The First Christmas

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas as you celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

Luke 2:1-20 (KJV)

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Beth-lehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David): To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Beth-lehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.




*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Merry Christmas!

The Gift Inside

The house is decorated. The gifts have been purchased. The baking is done. The only thing that remains is wrapping the presents. A quick inventory of supplies, reveals a myriad of gift wrap and bags to choose from. Colorful bows will add the finishing touch to each present.

Christmas is only a few days away. Our family will pass out gifts, one at a time, and watch as the recipient opens each present. Candid photos will record enthusiastic responses and surprised expressions for us to enjoy throughout the year. As the wrapping paper is torn from each box, it's the gift inside that will be treasured.

Travel back in time with me to a little town called Bethlehem. The marketplace is thronged with merchants selling their wares. The sound of voices fills the air as salesmen strike deals with customers. Townspeople stand in line, waiting to buy food and drink. Every inn is filled to capacity - some weary travelers are turned away.

Unbeknownst to the people of Bethlehem, a precious gift is born that very night. "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn," (Luke 2:7; KJV). 

This baby is God's gift to mankind. 

The Savior, who willingly left His throne in heaven, veiled Himself in flesh to live a sinless life and shed His blood on the cross to pay our sin debt. In the words of the apostle Paul: "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift," (2 Corinthians 9:15)!

Gifts are supposed to be accepted and unwrapped by the recipient. The present that I leave unopened under my Christmas tree won't be of any use to me. 

The same is true regarding the gift of Jesus Christ. He was sent for your benefit. He "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross," (Philippians 2:7-8). 

His desire is to give each one of us eternal life: "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord," (Romans 6:23).

How can such an amazing gift be unwrapped? He provides the answer: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life," (John 3:16).

Believe in Him. Believe that you are a sinner. Believe that Jesus shed His blood and paid your sin debt on the cross of Calvary. Put your faith in Him, and receive the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ!

Have you left the most important gift unopened this season? Don't wait till Christmas. You can receive this gift today. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved. And you'll spend an eternity rejoicing in heaven!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son Jesus to be born as a babe in a manger all those years ago. I praise you that Jesus willingly went to the cross, shedding His blood in payment for my sins. Thank you for the gift of eternal life you give me when I believe in the finished work of Jesus. To God be the glory! Amen.

*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Come join in the discussion!

A Price Worth Paying

December. The month we celebrate the birth of Jesus. As I decorated our Christmas tree and festive music played in the background, I couldn't help thinking about the time leading up to that first Christmas so many years ago...

No doubt Mary was excited. I imagine she was anticipating her marriage to Joseph, the talented carpenter. Wedding preparations were in full swing. No detail would be overlooked. The list of food for the celebration was thoroughly checked and re-checked. Although modest, accommodations for the guests were carefully thought through.

After a full day of chores and working on her wedding dress, Mary was more than ready for a good night of sleep. Little did she know this night would radically change the course of her life.

The being in her room could be none other than an angel. Before she could react, he was speaking, "Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women," (Luke 1:28; KJV). 

A bit frightened, Mary was troubled at his words, and wondered what he could possibly mean. Before she was able to respond, the angel delivered his message, "Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus," (Luke 1:30-31).

What? How could this be possible? Mary was a virgin. 

The angel gave her the answer, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God...For with God nothing shall be impossible," (Luke 1:35, 37).

Incredible! To be highly favored by God, and chosen to be the mother of the Messiah. Mary's response was immediate, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word," (Luke 1:38).

No hesitation. 

Full obedience.

As I continued to hang the Christmas ornaments on my tree, I couldn't help but think of the cost of obedience. For Mary, her reputation would be ruined. She would be shunned by family, friends, and society for becoming pregnant outside of marriage. It was possible that she could be stoned. Even her fiancé, Joseph, may not believe her. 

But Mary chose to believe God, and fully surrendered to His will for her. Although her life wasn't easy, Mary's obedience was rewarded by God. The Messiah was born Who would provide salvation for all mankind.

Obedience.

Being willing to submit to the Lord's authority. 

I had to ask myself if I am willing to pay the price of being obedient to my Savior, if it means running the risk of suffering. 

Tough question. But one that I can answer in the affirmative when I contemplate the outcome - hearing the words of my Heavenly Father, "...Well done, thou good and faithful servant," (Matthew 25:21a).

Are you willing to pay the price of obedience to Christ? What step will you take to be obedient today?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your Word. I love the examples of ordinary people, just like me, who chose to be obedient to You. Help me to choose to be obedient to You today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

*The events leading up to the appearance of the angel are fictionalized. The quoted scriptures contain the factual account. For the entire story, read Luke 1:26-38.

*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Come join in the discussion!

Stay Tuned

The month of December is always exciting: decorating, baking, getting together with family and friends. Most importantly, it's a dedicated time to reflect on the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

I'll be taking a blogging break on Thursdays this month to enjoy the season and work on a few surprises to be unveiled in the New Year.

Please join me on Mondays for some special posts leading up to Christmas! 

God Bless,

 

Created for a Purpose

The app is incredible. Google SkyMap. I can point my phone up to the sky in any direction, and the application will tell me which stars I'm looking at.

Pretty mind boggling. 

In Google's own words, "If there’s a specific constellation you’re looking for you can search through the application’s database, and SkyMap will help you find it in the sky, using an intuitive arrow system to tell you which direction to turn. When you get close, a circle will appear on the screen surrounding the stars that make up the constellation. It’s really a stargazer’s dream come true."

This amazing technology has made me more aware of a marvelous Creator! I'm convinced of the Psalmist's words, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork," (Psalm 19:1; KJV).

Imagine how handy this tool would have been 2000 years ago. I can picture the wise men holding up their smart phones, searching for the star that would lead them to the new-born King. But God's plan was infinitely better! 

An easily recognizable star, shining in the east, that would lead the men directly to the Savior.

Their journey was long. They came a considerable distance from the east to Jerusalem. Their excitement mounted as they made their way through the crowded streets to the palace. But no one knew anything about a baby.

King Herod called the priests and scribes together to do a little research. Where would this baby be born?

The scrolls contained an answer, "In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel," (Matthew 2:5-6).

Cold chills must have gripped the King as he contemplated this potential menace to the kingdom. He feigned kindness to his guests, telling them to find the baby and return to the palace, so he could go and worship the baby too. His unspoken plans played out in his mind. When the wise men returned, he would send his troops to do away with this threat to his throne.

The wise men continued their journey, destined for Bethlehem. They searched the sky. Sure enough, there it was: the star that had led them faithfully thus far. "...And lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy," (Matthew 2:9-10).

The star had been created for a purpose - to shine in such a way as to guide these men to the Savior. 

It did its job: "And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh," (Matthew 2:11).

See the connection? You were created for a purpose too. 

Just like the star of Bethlehem, each of us is given the opportunity to shine for Jesus, pointing others to Him. Don't let the hustle and bustle of the season dim your light. Instead, choose to be like that brightly shining star of long ago, leading others to the truth of a loving Savior who was born to reconcile sinful man with a holy God.

When your light is shining brightly, it won't take a neat app to find you, you'll be clearly visible. Doing your part to make your Heavenly Father known!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the opportunity to shine for You. During this busy Christmas season, help me to be still and know You are God. I humble myself in worship of You. Help me to shine brightly, pointing others to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.




*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Come join in the discussion!


*A re-post from 12/2010